Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang linked with Newcastle United

Newcastle United have expressed an interest in signing Arsenal star Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on loan with an option to buy, The Mirror claims.

The Gabon international was dropped from manager Mikel Arteta’s plans earlier last month following his second disciplinary breach of the campaign.

He was subsequently stripped of captaincy, and has not played in any of the previous six games for the Gunners.

His absence has not been felt with Alexandre Lacazette stepping up front. Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka have excelled in the wide attacking roles.

Arteta has regularly said that Aubameyang’s position will be assessed on a game by game basis, but the Magpies are now keen on prising him away.

The Tyneside outfit will propose a short-term loan deal with an option to buy next summer for £20 million.

Our view:

Aubameyang is currently with Gabon preparing for their African Cup of Nations campaign. He could be unavailable for the entire January if they progress beyond the group stage.

The Gunners plan to assess Aubameyang’s future on his return, but it appears the Magpies are keen on convincing them into a mid-season deal.

The 32-year-old is no longer in favour with Arteta. It has been reported that the Spanish tactician would not rule out the forward’s exit this month.

However, we don’t see that happening unless the Gunners have a replacement in place. Aside from Aubameyang, Eddie Nketiah could also leave.

The club graduate has entered the final six months of his contract, and has no plans of renewing his deal. He could be sold on a cut-price transfer.

In such a situation, the Gunners would be left with Alexandre Lacazette as the only senior striker, and an injury could put them in big jeopardy.

Gabriel Martinelli can play up front, but he tends to excel from the left wing. Folarin Balogun is still inexperienced, and has been touted to leave on loan.

Aubameyang will most certainly stay unless a high-profile replacement is signed. Arteta wants Ollie Watkins, but he may not be available in January.

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